50 Stories for 50 Years!

As we celebrate 50 incredible years of the Atlantic Association of College and University Student Services (AACUSS), we are launching a campaign to celebrate our community's memories, achievements, and impact. Our "50 Stories for 50 Years" initiative seeks to capture and share the voices and experiences that have shaped AACUSS into what it is today and where it is going! 

We invite you to join us in this commemoration by sharing your story. Whether you’re a past member or current professional or have been touched by the work of AACUSS, your reflections matter. Help us bring the rich tapestry of our history to life by contributing a personal narrative, a milestone moment, or a cherished memory.

Please spread the word and share this link with your former colleagues and anyone with an AACUSS story. Let's make this golden anniversary unforgettable by reflecting on our past, celebrating our present, and inspiring our future.

To share your story, click here.

Story 1/50 

Tom Brophy, President-Elect (2024-2025) sharing the story of the Carol's Creed Award and the infamous ore! 

Story 2/50 

Deanna Mohammed & Barbara Roberts co-founders of the Black and African Canadian Student Services Professionals division sharing the story of the creation of this brand new AACUS division! 

Story 3/50 

Cindy Crossman, AACUSS President 2020-2021

50 Years of Connection and Impact

When you work in student services as a team of one, representing an area on your ow, it can sometimes feel isolating. That’s why professional collaboration, networking, and the sharing of best practices have always been essential to my work. AACUSS has been a lifeline in that regard.

This AACUSS community has consistently offered me support, inspiration, and a sense of collegiality that’s hard to find elsewhere. During the height of COVID-19, AACUSS became more than just a network—it became a source of strength. We leaned on each other as sounding boards, collaborators, and friends, navigating unprecedented challenges together.
That period also sparked something in me. I felt called to step up and take on more of a leadership role within AACUSS. I wanted to give back to the organization that had given so much to me, and to show others—especially newer professionals—the power of community in this field.

One small but powerful example of that connection came through the AACUSS office pins. In a time when we couldn’t gather in person, receiving that pin in the mail meant everything. It was a simple reminder: You are not alone. We’re part of something bigger—an incredible group of professionals doing meaningful work for students, even when we’re physically apart. That tiny pin connected us across campuses and reminded us of our shared purpose.

Human connection is essential, especially in moments when we’re working solo. And just as we need to stay connected to one another, we also need to care for ourselves. We must remember to fill our own cups first—only then can we truly support others.

Over my 20+ years in student services, AACUSS has shaped my career in countless ways. It has helped me grow as a leader, stay current in best practices, and most importantly, feel like I’m never truly working alone. My hope is that the next generation of student affairs professionals recognizes the value of joining this community—not just for what they can gain, but for the incredible opportunity to connect, collaborate, and grow together.

Here’s to the next 50 years of connection, compassion, and collective impact.